Modi’s messaging during Nepal visit has been pitch perfect

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Nepal visit, which concludes today, has already seen several positives. At a time when Nepal is in the throes of drafting a fresh constitution, Modi’s outreach could very well lay the foundation of a new India-Nepal dynamic.

Mindful of the occasion, Modi’s address to the Nepali constituent assembly – which also doubles up as the country’s parliament in current political circumstances – was pitch perfect. The Indian premier called for a ‘HIT’ relationship between the two countries, stressing New Delhi’s desire to help Kathmandu build highways, infoways and transways (transmission lines).

Add to this India’s decision to extend a $1billion line of credit to Nepal for infrastructure development. The move reiterates New Delhi’s commitment to taking bilateral relations to the next level. That said, the highlight of Modi’s visit so far has been the Indian side’s decision to tell the Nepalese leadership that it is ready to revise the 1950 India-Nepal Friendship Treaty.

For years the latter has been used by Nepali political stakeholders to blame New Delhi for unequal treatment meted out to Kathmandu. However, no substantive efforts have been made to renegotiate the historic treaty. Modi’s willingness to push the issue lobs the ball back into Nepal’s court. This also means that Nepal’s politicians can no longer use the treaty as a bogey for scoring domestic political points.

On the other hand, it is welcome that Modi has stressed that India has no desire to interfere in Nepal’s political process. This should allay fears in Kathmandu that the new Indian leadership wants Nepal to revert back to a constitutional monarchy.

Taken together, there is no denying that Modi has got the messaging right on his Nepal visit. He has highlighted the special relationship that the two countries share without being overbearing. He has candidly addressed Nepalese concerns and has encouraged the leadership in Kathmandu to be forthcoming with their grievances. In sum, Modi has sought to break way from India’s earlier patronage approach in dealing with Nepal by setting the tone for a new equitable partnership.

Both sides should now get down to the brass tacks and deliver on the opportunities. For that Nepal must first complete its constitution writing process at the earliest.